Vine-like plants in the sarsaparilla family are found in many parts of the world. The most common form,
Smilax officinalis
, is grown primarily in Jamaica. Other common forms include
S. glyciphylla
(Australia),
S. japicanga
(Brazil),
S. glabra
(Sri Lanka),
S. china
(China), and
S. luzonensis
(Malaysia). The root is the part used medicinally.

Traditionally, various forms of sarsaparilla have been use to treat cancer, psoriasis, eczema, and other skin diseases. These uses are all tied together by an outdated treatment concept known as “blood purification.” It was thought that numerous ailments, including skin diseases, cancer, and other conditions, were due to impurities in the blood. Herbs said to have blood purifying properties, such as sarsaparilla, were used to correct this traditionally acknowledged problem.

Like numerous other herbs, sarsaparilla contains substances in the saponin family. One of these, sarsasapogenin, is often said to reproduce the effect of various hormones. However, there is no evidence whatsoever to support this claim.

Based on traditional usage, as well as ungrounded extrapolation from
test tube
findings, sarsaparilla is sold today as a treatment for
psoriasis
and other skin problems as well as cancer, menstrual disorders, and
asthma
. Other unsubstantiated uses include enhancing sexual function, improving mental function in
Alzheimer’s disease
, protecting the liver, and improving sports performance.

Dosage

A typical dose of sarsaparilla is 2-4 g three times per day. Various tinctures are also available; these should be taken according to label instructions.

Safety Issues

Although the use of sarsaparilla has not been associated with any serious adverse consequences, comprehensive safety studies have not been performed. Sarsaparilla is traditionally not recommended for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Safety in young children and people with liver or kidney disease is also questionable.

As with most substances taken orally, sarsaparilla may cause gastrointestinal distress.
Germany’s Commission E
also reports short-term “kidney irritation” as a side effect; what this means, precisely, remains unclear.

Note that though various species of sarsaparilla are often used somewhat interchangeably; it is quite possible that some varieties of this plant are safer than others.

Finally, some sarsaparilla products have been found to contain unsafe levels of lead.
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Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.